Desmond Masters is a Bristol-based ceramic artist whose work is rooted in memory, music, street culture and lived experience. His journey with clay began by chance when he was gifted a Raku workshop as a birthday present in 2022. He quickly discovered a connection with clay and began making sneakers - a form that had been a constant thread throughout his life, from childhood and school days to hip-hop, breaking and beyond.

From there came the idea for 52: to make 52 ceramic sneakers over 52 weeks, with each shoe telling a different part of his story. Together, they form a sculptural autobiography - one life told through clay and the shoes that carried him through it.

Desmond will hold his first solo exhibition on Saturday 14 November 2026 at Hamilton House, Stokes Croft, Bristol. Featuring special guest collaborations with renowned Bristol artists Acerone, Ali Brown, Catherine Long, Gage, Hannah Jacklin, Natasha Clutterbuck, Simone Braithwaite and Tom Moy. Each artist will be creating artwork on one of Des's clay sneakers inspired by their own personal memory - bringing more Bristol lives, stories and experiences into 52.

Through these 52 ceramic sneakers, Desmond tells the story of his life — exploring identity, family, loss, race and growing up in Bristol. Each sculpture represents a moment, memory or chapter of his life.

The exhibition will raise money for Off The Record, 224 Youth Zone and Temwa. All profits will be split equally between the three charities.